Arrests made at derby match

Nichola Neill

Ballymena police made two arrests for disorderly behaviour in the Warden Street area at around 10pm on Wednesday night.

The arrests followed sporadic fighting involving people who had earlier attended the Ballymena and Coleraine football match.

Superintendent Ryan Henderson said: “No major injuries were reported as a result of the incidents but local residents were disturbed and concerned as the trouble unfolded in their area.

“Officers remained in the area for around an hour to allow for supporters to disperse and provide reassurance for those residents.

“The two men who were arrested are aged 19 and 20. They have been dealt with by way of discretionary disposal. Officers are working to identify other people who may have been involved in the fighting.

Supt Henderson concluded:

“Clearly these types of incidents are unsavoury, cause concern and annoyance for local residents and have nothing to do with genuine football supporters. Other arrests may follow in the coming days and weeks.”